GEOS 5300 Cooperative Geosciences (3 semester hours) An industrial
internship in which a student gains real-world industry experience through temporary
employment at a geoscience company or government agency. The activity may be in
any area of geosciences, and must have a faculty monitor to receive UTD credit.
The topic must be approved in advance by the faculty monitor. The student is
required to provide regular updates on progress and a final project report for
evaluation. Grading is P/F. Designed as an Individual Instruction Course. May
be repeated for credit. (3-0) R GEOS 5301 Geology of the Metroplex (3 semester hours) Lithologic
constituents, stratigraphic history, and geologic environments of the greater
Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area. Special emphasis is given to the
Cretaceous sediments that underlie Tarrant and DallasCounties,
with a secondary focus on the broader geologic environment. Three to four
1-day (Saturday) field trips. (3-0) T GEOS 5302 Ocean Science (3 semester hours) Overview of geological,
chemical, physical and biological aspects of oceanography, marine resources and
environmental concerns. This course is for students seeking the M.A.T. degree.
This course cannot be used to satisfy degree requirements of geosciences
majors. (3-0) R GEOS 5303 Computing for Geoscientists (3 semester hours) Application of
computer techniques in solving geological problems. Includes instruction in the
MATLAB (r) software, plotting facilities, introductory matrix theory, and
statistics. Students will examine problems in basic statistical analysis,
graphics, and mapping of geological and geophysical data. Development of
programming skills in areas directly related to thesis and dissertation
research is encouraged. Serves as introduction to UNIX and the UT Dallas
computing facility. (3-0) YGEOS 5304 Geosciences Field Trip (3 semester hours) A study of the
geology of a selected region within North America and the Caribbean followed by
a field trip to the selected region in order to study the relationships of
geologic features within that region. This course can only be used to partially
satisfy the field experience requirement and breadth requirement for
geosciences majors. Field trip course. (May be repeated for credit.) (3-0) Y GEOS 5305 Petroleum Geosciences (3 semester hours) Survey of geological
and geophysical methods used to find and produce oil and gas, and to perform
economic and risk analyses that are crucial in reserve estimates and prospect
evaluation. The course is designed to provide the student with the necessary
knowledge to become an effective contributor in the oil and gas industry.
Students are expected to have the equivalent of a BS or BA degree in
Geosciences. (3-0) R GEOS 5400 Earth Science (4 semester hours) A review of Earth processes
as a whole: time and geology; igneous and sedimentary processes and products;
metamorphism; structure; evolution of continents and oceans. This course is
open only to those students whose major undergraduate study was in subjects
other than geology. Laboratory and field trip course. (3-3) R GEOS 5V08 Special Topics in Geosciences (1-4 semester hours) Courses
dealing with a variety of topics including new techniques and specific problems
in rapidly developing areas of the science. Hours vary depending on course
requirements. May be repeated for credit as topics vary. ([1-3]-[0-3]) R GEOS 5100 Introductory Graduate Seminar (1 semester hour) Presentations
of current research by the Geosciences faculty members and orientation for new
graduate students. (1-0) Y GEOS 7V00 Research and Literature Seminar (1 or 2 semester hours)
Presentations and critical analysis of independent work and of the recent
literature. Pass/Fail only. (May be repeated for credit.) ([1-2]-0) Y

Geology
Courses

GEOS 5441 Stratigraphy and Sedimentology (4 semester hours) Origin and
classification of sedimentary rocks, reconstruction of ancient environments,
and basic principles of modern stratigraphic nomenclature. Concepts of space
and time in the rock record and methods of stratigraphic correlation.
Integrated stratigraphic techniques. Study of sedimentary rocks in hand
specimen and outcrop. Laboratory course. Field trips. Course is directed to
graduate students not majoring in geology and is meant to provide a practical
overview of sedimentary geology. Permission of instructor is required to take
this course. (3-3) Y GEOS 5373 Physical Properties of Rocks (3 semester hours) This course
provides an understanding of the physical phenomena and processes that
determine properties of rocks and soils. Topics include porosity and
permeability; surface energy, roughness, and absorption; percolation, fractures
and heterogeneous media; problems of scale; mechanical behavior of dry and
fluid saturated rocks; elasticity; viscoelasticity, and plasticity; acoustic,
electric, dielectric, thermal, and magnetic properties. The approach is
practical, with emphasis on understanding why rocks behave as they do, and how
simple physical principles can be used to predict rock and soil properties
under various conditions. Suitable for graduate students in any branch of
geosciences who wish to obtain a broad introduction to physical properties as they
pertain to lab and field measurements, and are applied to reservoir,
engineering, and environmental problems. (3-0) R GEOS
5375 Tectonics(3 semester hours) Study of the earth’s
present tectonic environments, including geochemistry, sedimentology,
and structure; application of present tectonic environments towards the
reconstruction of ancient crustal events; consideration of temporal aspects of
crustal evolution. Oral and written presentations required.
(3-0) YGEOS 5470 Structural Geology (4 semester hours) Examination of stress
and strain, failure criteria, fault analysis, rheologic properties of geologic
materials, fold analysis, and a survey of major structural provinces in North
America, with supplemental readings. Laboratory includes map interpretation,
standard graphical techniques, and use of stereographic projections, oral
presentations, and problem sets. Laboratory and field trip
course. Prerequisite: PHYS 1301 or equivalent. (3-3) Y
GEOS 7170 Workshop in Structure/Tectonics (1 semester hour) Presentation
and discussion of current research with emphasis on problems, techniques, and
recent literature. (May be repeated for credit.) (1-0) Y GEOS 8V70 Research in Structural Geology-Tectonics (1-9 semester hours)
May be repeated for credit. ([1-9]-0) S

Hydrogeology-Environmental
Geosciences Courses

GEOS 5319 Principles of Environmental Health (3 semester hour)
Introduction to epidemiology and biostatistics. U.S. regulatory agencies. Ethics,
risk assessment and public policy. Diseases spread by food and water. Lung
diseases associated with particles and fibers. Health significance of exposures
to arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead and mercury compounds and to chemical
substances – solvents, PCBs, PBBs, dioxins, and dibenzofurans. Ionizing radiation.
Health implications of global warming (3-0) T GEOS 5310 Hydrogeology (3 semester hours) Introduction to the principles
and practice of ground- and surface-water hydrology. Study of the principles of
occurrence and geologic controls of groundwater, physical flow, and
geochemistry of waters. Design and use of procedures for typical hydrologic
investigations. (3-0) Y GEOS 5311 Applied Groundwater Modeling (3 semester hours) This course is
designed to provide students with hands-on experience using the most
commonly-applied groundwater flow and transport models (e.g. modflow/modpath,
MT3D/RT3D, GMS). Practical application of the models and design of modeling
studies is emphasized, modeling theory and mathematics is de-emphasized.(3-0) Y
GEOS 5313 Applied Surface Water Modeling (3 semester hours) The
development and application of watershed models emphasizing runoff, stormflow
and stormwater management design. This class combines aspects of GIS, remote
sensing and surface water hydrology from an applied modeling perspective, using
commonly applied computer models (e.g. Rational Method, TR-20, HEC-1) to
address drainage problems related to urbanization and land-use changes. (3-0) T
GEOS 5315 The Earth:
An Overview (3 semester hours) Nucleosynthetic
processes, condensation of the solar system and the formation of the Earth-Moon
system. Tectonic and magmatic processes driven by internal
heat.The minerals of igneous rocks.Modes of emplacement and eruption of igneous rocks.Rock weathering and the external, sun-driven processes of erosion,
transport and deposition.Biogenic sediments.Continental collisions, mountain building, rock deformation and
metamorphism.Methods of dating and correlating rocks.A history of the Earth through time.Current problems and trends in the geosciences.Field trip.(3-0) YGEOS 7110 Workshop in Environmental Geosciences (1 semester hour)
Discussion of current topics in environmental geoscience, including student and
faculty research, scientific literature, and advanced techniques in environmental
geosciences. (1-0) R GEOS 8V10 Research in Hydrogeology-Environmental Geosciences (1-9
semester hours) May repeat for credit. ([1-9]-0) S

Computing,
Remote Sensing, GIS, and GPS Courses

GEOS 5303Computing for Geoscientists (3 semester hours)
Application of computer techniques in solving geological problems. Includes
instruction in the MATLAB (r) software, plotting facilities, introductory
matrix theory, and statistics. Students will examine problems in basic
statistical analysis, graphics, and mapping of geological and geophysical data.
Development of programming skills in areas directly related to thesis and
dissertation research is encouraged. Serves as introduction to UNIX and the
UT Dallas computing facility. (3-0) YGEOS 5306 Data Analysis for Geoscientists (3 semester hours) Advanced
statistical techniques with important applications in Earth science, beyond the
level of GEOS 5303. Topics include robust statistics, exploratory data
analysis, surface modeling and contouring, Kriging, analysis of point patterns
and directional data. Factor, cluster and time series analysis may also be
considered. Emphasis will be on application and theoretical understanding.
Prerequisite: GEOS 5303 or equivalent. (3-0) R GEOS 5325 (GISC 6325) Introduction to Remote Sensing (3 semester hours)
Application of airborne and satellite remote sensing for understanding the
surface of the earth. Focus on interpretation of images obtained by passive and
active imaging systems using electromagnetic radiation, especially visible,
infra-red. (2-3) TGEOS 5326 (GISC 7365) Remote Sensing Digital Image Processing (3
semester hours) Techniques of digital image processing for a variety of remote
sensing data sets and their applications for environmental and geoscientific
issues. Extraction of statistical data from remote sensing imagery, radiometric
and geometric correction, image enhancement and classification, and techniques
for utilizing digital remote sensing data for change detection of the earth's
surface. Use of different image processing software to manipulate digital
remote sensing data and extract thematic information. Introduction to Remote
Sensing (GEOS 5325) is a prerequisite for this course. (3-0) TGEOS 5329 (GISC 7366) Applied Remote Sensing (3 semester hours) Methods
for using optical and radar remote sensing data and techniques for study of
issues related to physical and social sciences, including geological,
environmental, and geomorphological studies, forestry, agriculture, and issues
related to urban development and planning. Use of a variety of remote sensing
data and software to address societal and scientific problems. Laboratory
course. Prerequisite: Principles of Remote Sensing (GISC 6325/GEOS 5325). (3-0) T GEOS 5330 Geospatial Applications in Earth
Science (3 semester hours) Application of geospatial techniques in solving
earth science problems. Emphasis will be placed on the use of the
Global Positioning System in survey and geodetic applications, airborne and
ground-based LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), and
digital acquisition and analysis techniques. Case histories will be considered
and supplemented by hands-on exercises using a broad range of digital
acquisition and analysis equipment and tools. (3-0) YGEOS 5322 GPS (Global Positioning System) Satellite Surveying Techniques
(4 semester hours) The theory and application of satellite positioning
utilizing the Global Positioning System, code and phase based methodology in
field observations, data processing and analysis of differential GPS, high
accuracy static and other rapid measurements, in real time and with
post-processing. (3-3) Y GEOS 53243D Data Capture and Ground Lidar (3 semester hours) The
theory and applications of 3D data acquisition in the field for geosciences and
non-geosciences studies. The basics and applications of field digital mapping
with emphasis on RTK GPS, laser range finder, and terrestrial scanners (ground
lidar). 3D digital photorealistic modeling with field photogrammetry and
digital cameras. (3-0) TGEOS 7327 (GISC 7367) Remote Sensing Workshop (3 semester hours) An
independent project designed and conducted by the student. The project develops
and demonstrates student’s competence in using remote sensing techniques in a
substantive application to his/her field of interest. Projects may be developed
in coordination with a local government, utility, business or other entity
which uses remote sensing in operations and research. Formal presentation and a
project report are required. Prerequisites: GISC 6381 and GISC 7365(3-0) Y GEOS 8V21 Research in Remote Sensing, GIS and GPS (1-9 semester hours)
May repeat for credit. ([1-9]-0) S

Geochemistry
Courses

GEOS 5352 Geochemistry of Igneous Rocks (3 semester hours) Chemical
composition of igneous rocks and the major processes that control the
distribution of the elements in silicate melts. Topics to be covered include
the composition of the earth, the structure of silicate melts, trace element
partitioning between crystals and melts, and the use of major and trace elements
in deciphering the formation and evolution of silicate melts. (3-0) T GEOS 5356 Isotope Geochemistry (3 semester hours) Synthesis of the
elements in stars and chronologies for the galaxy. Isotope systematics in
meteorites, abundance anomalies, cosmogenic nuclides, and solar system
chronologies. The development of the modern multi-collector mass spectrometer.
Mass fractionation laws, double spiking techniques, and high precision isotope
ratio measurements. Isotope geochemistry of noble gases and radiogenic nuclides
as pertaining to the composition and history of the mantle and crust.
Application of stable isotopes to studies of diagenesis and water-rock
interaction, groundwater management, paleoceanography and secular variations in
the isotopic composition of seawater. High-temperature and, where applicable,
low-temperature water-rock interactions pertaining to the origin of igneous
rocks. The evolution of radiogenic Sr in sea water. Radiometric age dating as
applied to the solution of geologic problems. (3-0) R GEOS 8V50 Research in Geochemistry (1-9 semester hours) (May repeat for
credit.) ([1-9]-0) S

Geophysics
and Seismology Courses

GEOS 5380 Seismic Interpretation (3 semester hours) Seismic reflection
profiling as it is used to map the distribution of sedimentary layers and
faults in the subsurface. Special emphasis is given to applications in
hydrocarbon exploration. Extensive use is made of software processing packages.
(3-0) T GEOS 5387 Applied Geophysics (3 semester
hours) This is the Geosciences core graduate course in
geophysics. Emphasis is on the application of geophysical methods to the
solution of geological problems and the connection between geophysical
measurements and the physical properties of Earth materials. Topics include seismology;
gravity; magnetics; electromagnetics;
resistivity; ground penetrating radar; and well logging. Case histories will be
considered in addition to the technical aspects of data collection, processing
and interpretation. (3-0) YGEOS 5395 Satellite Geophysics and
Applications
(3 semester hours) This course concerns both the
theory and application of observing geophysical fields from space-borne
platforms. The observation procedures including orbital mechanics are
introduced and signal propagation, errors and uncertainties will be addressed.
Concepts of current satellite missions such as radar and laser altimetry, space
gravimetry and magnetometry,
and synthetic aperture radar will be discussed. Applications of satellite
geophysical observations in tectonics, geodynamics, ocean and ice surface
monitoring, hydrology, and terrain modeling will be introduced through student
projects and presentations. (3-0) YGEOS 5481 Digital Geophysical Signal Processing (4 semester hours)
Principles of the analysis of geophysical signals in both time and space.
Includes integral transforms, spectral analysis, linear filter theory and
deconvolution techniques. Computer applications are emphasized. Laboratory
course. Prerequisite: GEOS 5303 or equivalent, may be taken concurrently. (3-3)
R GEOS 5490Applied Geophysics (4 semester hours) The theoretical
basis and practical aspects of the collection, processing and interpretation of
geophysical data. A broad range of methods will be discussed including:
gravity, magnetic, electrical and seismic. Applications to geologic problems at
a variety of scales from the near surface to continental will be considered. A
laboratory will feature geophysical data acquisition and interpretation for a
specific local geological target. (3-3) YGEOS 5484 Near-Surface Geophysical Imaging (4 semester hours) This
course concerns the theoretical and practical aspects of geophysical data
collection. The planning and execution of small scale surveys, of the type
employed in engineering, groundwater and environmental site evaluations, is
featured. Techniques covered include both refraction and reflection seismology
and both low and high frequency, single and multi-channel ground-penetrating
radar. Advantage is taken of both the similarities and complementary behaviors
of seismic and radar waves. An integration of both seismic and radar data is
emphasized in interpretation. A background in calculus (MATH 2417) and general
physics (PHYS 1301) is required. Permission of instructor is required. (3-3) T GEOS 6382 Geophysical Inversion Theory (3 semester hours) Theoretical
and practical aspects of fitting mathematical models to data in geophysics.
Topics covered include the inversion of both discrete systems and integral
equations, for linear and non-linear relationships between data and parameters.
Particular attention is paid to assessment of model accuracy and uniqueness.
Prerequisites: Advanced calculus and linear algebra or equivalent. (3-0) R GEOS 6392 Reflection Seismology (3 semester hours) Theoretical and
practical aspects of seismic reflection data acquisition and processing.
Includes the wave equation, the convolutional model, coded sources, the array
response, velocity estimation, statics, filtering, pre- and post-stack
migration, and direct and indirect detection of hydrocarbons, VSPs, AVO and 3-D
processing. Prerequisites: GEOS 5481, and GEOS 5392 or equivalent. (3-0) R GEOS 6393 Computational Seismology (3 semester hours) Principles of
parallel computing with applications to seismology. Includes overviews
of current computer cluster and switch architectures, writing and debugging
parallel code, characterization of machine performance, fast Fourier
transforms, Radon transforms, solution of matrix and wave equations. Laboratory
course. Prerequisites: GEOS5303, GEOS5481, and any numerical analysis course. (2-3) R GEOS 6395 Seismic Modeling (3 semester hours) Theory and application of
the major techniques for computation of synthetic seismograms. Topics
include asymptotic ray theory, spectral and slowness methods, finite
differences, finite elements, Kirchhoff, and boundary integral methods.
Readings will be drawn from the literature. Prerequisite: GEOS 5392 and any two
graduate seismology courses. (3-0) R GEOS 6396 Seismic Inversion (3 semester hours) Theory and application of
the major techniques for inversion of seismic data. Topics include linear and
nonlinear matrix methods, Wiechert-Herglotz integration, extremal inversion,
migration, wavefield imaging of body and surface waves, and tomography, imaging
of VSPs, and Born inversion. Readings will be drawn from the literature.
Prerequisite: Any two graduate seismology courses. (3-0) R GEOS 7190 Workshop in Seismology (1 semester hour) Informal presentation
and discussion of current research of graduate students and faculty, of new
computing equipment and software, and of current research literature.
(Pass/Fail grading only. May be repeated for credit.) (1-0) S GEOS 8V80 Research in Geophysics (1-9 semester hours) May be repeated
for credit. ([1-9]-0) S GEOS 8V90 Research in Seismology (1-9 semester hours) May repeat for
credit. ([1-9]-0) S